Inpatient/Outpatient US Clinical Experience in Gastroenterology in Houston

Information about this clinical experience:

This is an inpatient and outpatient experience during which you will be under the supervision of two board-certified gastroenterologists. Of note, the main preceptor is a Clinical Assistant Professor at the Sam Houston State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. They are both known for their bedside manner, and their efforts to really form connections with patients. When we asked them what they want IMGs to learn from their rotation, they said the following:

The art of storytelling and story listening is the most important thing I want IMGs or any other student of medicine to take away from my practice.

The physicians care for both insured and uninsured patients. For patients who lack health insurance, you will see how experienced gastroenterologists work within the constraints of the healthcare system to ensure these patients receive the necessary care that they deserve. These doctors are role models in terms of bringing advocacy and creative problem-solving to patients struggling with barriers to care. 

The patients served in the practice are of many different ethnicities and cultures. Therefore, this will be an excellent opportunity to learn how care can be tailored to varying backgrounds, beliefs, and socioeconomic factors. 

Rotators will also be able observe a wide range of procedures. These include colonoscopy, upper enodscopy, and ERCP, among others. By the end of the experience, students will have gained a stronger understanding of the indications, contraindications, and possible complications of these procedures. These procedures will take place at an outpatient center and within a hospital. On average, rotators can expect to go to the hospital once per week. 

During your experience, you will learn the following U.S. medical practices under the preceptor’s supervision:

• Taking patient histories.

• Performing physical exams under the physician's supervision.

• Presenting patients.

• Navigating the EMR (CureMD)

• Have opportunities to research the literature to answer clinical questions at the point of care.

• Being involved in patient education.

• Spending time with other healthcare professionals to understand their roles and responsibilities.

The activities above will mostly take place in the outpatient setting. As a result of hospital policies, inpatient activities will be more observational.